Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, insists that a collaborative relationship between Nigeria and South Africa is a benefit to the African continent.
The Deputy Minister was speaking at the Roundtable Discussion on the Media’s Influence in Shaping Africa’s indispensable relationship: Nigeria and South Africa.
The two countries have shared diplomatic relations since the dawn of democracy in South Africa 30 years ago.
‘Throughout this diplomatic friendship, both our governments have sought to place multilateralism high on the agenda of our international relations, both within and without Africa. I am certain that you as the media, have made copious reports on all of these efforts.
‘At times and more often than its necessary; this reportage has sought to craft a narrative of hegemonic contest between our two brother countries. This narrative is divisive and should through word and deed, be silenced,’ he said.
Morolong urged media practitioners to contribute to the enhancement of the relation
ship between the two countries.
‘A healthy society is one that is based on notions of social solidarity, democratic principles, prosperity and led by accountable leadership. It is a society that has the inherent capacity to invite and promote the wits and creativity of all its members to contribute to national and international life.
‘We therefore, have to make sure as South African and Nigerian media practitioners that we contribute our bit to ensure that the media power is wielded in a manner that contributes to a healthy society, thus defined.
‘Our first task when we leave from this round table discussion, is to utilise media effectively to enhance relations between our two countries. It is critical that our relations are not only viewed within the context of narrow and myopic confines of competition, but rather, collaboration that seeks to benefit the entire continent and influence international relations across the world,’ he said.
He also told the media to hold the two governments to account on the
several bilateral agreements and memoranda of understandings signed between the two countries.
‘The last session of the BNC [Bi-National Commission] was hosted in Abuja in December 2021 and the next session is expected be hosted in South Africa in December 2024.
‘You in the media, will have to report on the successes and failures of the bilateral agreements that have been made so far. We hope such reportage will be accompanied by the depiction of truthful state of implementation. Seeking to hold both our governments to account to both our peoples and the world,’ he said.
The Deputy Minister told the gathering that it is crucial for ‘us to take full advantage of the available rich content and formulate messages that build and strengthen the bonds between our countries’.
‘In your skills of trade and the nature of profession, critical reviews are important for the democratic values of the two countries.
‘Both countries would benefit from investing in using digital media to set and lead a positive narrative
and capitalise on the rich culture of both nations through Cultural Diplomacy exchange.’
Source: South African Government News Agency